Tours

The English Manner was founded on the basis of a modern day finishing school – the ability to acquire confidence and poise in social and business situations and with that, a knowledge of culture, history, arts related subjects, food, wine and gardens, to name but a few.

A pioneer in offering escorted tours for cultural learning, whether for the discerning international individual or groups such as the Lake Forest Garden Club, the National Society Colonial Dames XVIIth Century or the Trinity Academy, we are a small team designing and working to the highest standards with absolute attention to detail.

We are noted, not only for our luxurious standards in accommodation, transport and dining, but for our ability to offer access to otherwise inaccessible avenues; private homes, Royal palaces, gardens and experiences which money alone cannot buy. Guests have a unique opportunity to step beyond the restraints of normal vacation travel, learning at first hand from owners and specialists.

Responsible for tours and cultural masterclasses for connoisseurs, from concept and research, to design and hosting, we are proud to work in partnership with Discover Europe, Haslemere Travel and Countess Connections, to offer travel logistics, flights, insurance and credit card protection within the minutiae of the legalities of international travel.

We have welcomed single travellers, exploring couples and friends; non English speaking international guests who want to learn more of British or European culture; and guests eager to expand a treasured interest. From British manners to landscape & garden design, Real Tennis, art history, harp and opera music, to a straightforward appreciation of art, theatre, literature and history; we have designed and orchestrated special interest tours in England, Scotland, Ireland, France and Italy.

One of our first garden tours led to the first ever entry of a USA Garden Club to a RHS Chelsea Flower Show Garden and a silver gilt medal. Another programme led to the Chief Justices' Programme for Jamestown 2007. In recent years we were proud to be invited to participate in the Visit Britain promotion of Downton Abbey and continue to offer private visits within the Highclere estate.

No hobby or interest is beyond us; we always give careful consideration and research in designing a fabulous cultural programme to stretch the mind and imagination.

Guest Testimonial

"The English Manner is absolutely the finest way to experience England and the British Isles with the very best of everything and everyone. Alexandra Messervy and her staff assure perfection."

Guides & Experts

Our guides and experts are the leaders in their field, and include Todd Longstaffe-Gowan and Rose Balston, Heidi Howcroft, Mary Keen, Amelia Dalton, David Fletcher and Nicholas Merchant. Every aspect is personally known to us, including the finest inns, cafes, restaurants and shops; the best country house hotels or private ancestral homes; and the loveliest gardens and fine art collections which are not always open to the general public. There are no hidden extras, whether a programme combines classroom based tutorials and field trips, or a more sophisticated cultural tour, many meals are provided, all entrance fees, guiding and luxury accommodation – sometimes even special surprise treats.

Transport

Transport is provided by several partners all of whom we rate very highly for their attentive cheerful service and willingness to assist our guests. Ranging from 72-seater coaches for a group of 30 with luggage; to a private chauffeur driven Range Rover or luxury sedan, our guests are met and transported in the ultimate style, as befits The English Manner.